A CAMPAIGN has been launched to support children’s literacy in the district.

The Connecting Stories initiative aims to boost youngsters’ access to books and champion reading and creative writing.

Spearheading the venture is Bradford Stories – the district’s National Literacy Trust hub – with funding from Arts Council England.

Authors Konnie Huq and Harry Heape will stage ‘virtual visits’ and oversee a writing competition. And publishers Bonnier Books UK and Faber & Faber will donate books.

The creative writing contest will be open to young people aged seven to 14. Entries will be published in one of 19 Connecting Stories anthologies and displayed at community venues.

Ms Huq said: “I have long believed in the power of stories and their ability to connect us all, which is why I jumped at the chance to take part in this exciting new project.

“I can’t wait to begin sharing my love of reading with children in Bradford district and look forward to seeing their creativity and imagination shine through as the competition entries flood in!”

Mr Heape said he was delighted to be involved.

He added: “Reading enables children to jump into different worlds and this project will provide some much-needed positivity and escapism for us all at a time when we could use a little brightness.”

Bradford Stories manager, Imran Hafeez, said the project was “a brilliant opportunity” for youngsters to have a voice and develop their literacy skills.

He added: “The initiative will also support wellbeing and promote community connections during a particularly difficult time. I look forward to working with community organisations and cultural institutions, such as Bradford Literature Festival.”

Sarah Crown, director of literature at Arts Council England, said the organisation was “proud” to be giving its support.

She said: “Connecting Stories is a brilliant, creative way of supporting children’s literacy in communities suffering disproportionately from the impact of Covid-19.

“The commitment of publishers to helping children and young people connect with stories and the authors is hugely exciting – and will offer inspiration to children and families around the country, as well as a means of celebrating unique communities. Arts Council England is proud to support this work.”

For more details, visit literacytrust.org.uk/communities/connecting-stories.